This expanded, 2-CD re-packaging of Orchestra Baobob’s classic 1982 recording evokes the atmosphere of urban Senegal at a time when Afro-Cuban music was still king — i.e., before the rise of Youssou N’Dour and the rowdy mbalax style. No wall of percussion here, just sweetly swinging big-band African pop, with a pronounced Latin tinge. Horns, particularly saxophones, are as important as guitar in this band’s sound. They harmonize playfully on the rumba-like "Coumba," and tangle with Barthelemy Atisso’s stylish guitar on the hard-driving "Ray M’Bele," sung by a young Medoune Diallo, presently of Africando fame. "Ledi Ndieme M’Bodji" offers an intriguing blend of Wolof folklore and Latin pop. CD two broadens the mix with three tracks sung in Mandinka by Balla Sidibe of Senegal’s southern Cassamance region, whose dicey politics figure into the lyrics on one track. The lively 12/8 feel of "Toumaranke" sounds a little like roots pop from Central Africa, while "Balla Daffe" veers toward reggae. Mapenda Seck’s gloriously clear, high voice graces "Ngalam," a song rooted in the griot tradition of the Wolof people. In all, a relaxed, tasty mix from one of West Africa’s seminal pop bands.